The Sabarimalai Temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees every year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is located in a forest reserve, surrounded by hills and dense forests. The temple can be reached through a trekking trail starting from Pamba. During the pilgrimage season, which is from November to January, the trekking trail is open to devotees. The temple is open throughout the year, but it is closed during the first five days of every Malayalam month. Devotees have to follow a strict dress code and other regulations while visiting the temple.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, deer, and many species of birds. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the sanctuary. The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the monsoon season, which is from June to September, when the sanctuary is lush green and teeming with wildlife. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and carry binoculars and cameras to capture the beauty of the sanctuary.
Other attractions around Sabarimalai include the Erumeli Mosque, the Vavar Shrine, and the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, which offers traditional martial arts performances. To maximize your fun, you can plan your visit during the pilgrimage season and join the Swami Ayyappa Seva Sangham, which organizes trekking expeditions to Sabarimalai. You can also try local cuisine at the many restaurants around the temple.